Set just off the coast of Venezuela, Tobago revels in its low-key vibe, welcoming nature lovers, beach bums and keen divers. Whilst neighbouring Trinidad is a brilliant place for a party, Tobago has a more laid-back rhythm and has seen far less large-scale development. It’s a wonderful island, therefore, for those looking to kick back and relax in everything from simple eco lodges to intimate and luxurious villa-hotels. Fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets, our pick of the best places to stay in Tobago all promise beautiful sea views — a welcoming perk of life on a small island!

For an insight into Tobago’s history, tour Fort King George, in the town of Scarborough. The English-built fort houses the Tobago Museum, and is best explored with a knowledgeable guide. Expert-led tours are also an excellent way to see the Tobago Forest Reserve, which is particularly well-known for its diverse birdlife. This is the oldest protected rainforest in the Caribbean, and its spectacular valleys and mountains make for marvellous hikes. Closer to Scarborough, Corbin Local Wildlife Park is great for nature lovers, whilst the island of Little Tobago is a designated bird sanctuary, with some good short hikes.

Tobago boasts a huge array of sandy beaches, including picturesque Pigeon Point Beach, Pirate’s Bay, Stonehaven Bay and Big Bay, amongst others. You’ll find ample opportunities to go swimming, sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and diving. Nylon Pool, close to Pigeon Point, is a particularly calm and clear favourite for snorkelling as a family. Speak to your hotel or dive school about the best scuba diving spots! Back inland, you’ll also find scenic cycling and horse riding trails for guests of all ages, as well as top-notch golf courses.

Don’t miss the chance to get a sense of island life by strolling through friendly fishing villages and tasting Caribbean rum in barefoot beach bars before cosying up at one of the best places to stay in Tobago.

The Best Places to Stay in Tobago

For an Eco Lodge

• Castara Retreats is a collection of elegant eco lodges built on the hillside next to the fishing village of Castara. The ethos is very much about soaking up your beautiful natural surroundings and experiencing village life whilst making a minimal environmental impact. Sample food in the village, take guided jungle & birdwatching walks and kick back at the beach. One for lovers of the great outdoors.

For Families or Groups

• Plantation Beach Villas features six colonial-style residences, each of which sleeps up to 6 guests, making it a fun family or group choice. There's an onsite beach bar, table tennis, volleyball, darts and kayaking. With beach access and nearby tennis and golf facilities, this is a stylish pick for an active trip.
• Bacolet Beach Club is a whitewashed 20-room hotel perched above a secluded beach. The contemporary rooms with balconies face either the azure waters of the ocean or the pool. Promising good food and a relaxed vibe, this is a wonderful base for young families or groups of friends. Simple and well-priced, too.
• Blue Waters Inn sits just above Speyside beach, and has a bar, swimming pool and tennis courts. The property's apartments and villas have up to three bedrooms, as well as their own kitchenettes and verandas — ideal for group or family holidays.

For Luxury

• The Villas at Stonehaven promise an intimate and indulgent Caribbean escape. Expect four-poster beds, superb sea views, private plunge pools and generous verandahs. Three-bedroom villas are ideal for families or groups, whilst the gorgeous one-bedroom villas are the ultimate honeymoon hideaway. There are two onsite eateries, as well as tennis courts and two 18-hole golf courses a short drive away.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Tobago?

• Fly to A. N. R. Robinson International Airport, near the island's southwest corner, and travel to your hotel or villa by taxi.
• For the freedom to explore in your own rental car, contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Expect balmy temperatures of around 25-28°C throughout the year. Peak season is between mid-December and mid-April. Travel between the end of the season and June for great hotel deals!
• The hurricane season officially lasts from June to November. August and September are the highest risk months and best avoided.

Still not sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Trinidad.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Caribbean.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Tobago